A major accident occurred in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district when a bus carrying 20–25 passengers plunged into the Alaknanda River near Gholtir. The bus reportedly lost control on a dangerous bend and fell into the deep gorge after toppling multiple times. Initial reports confirm one death and several injuries, with some passengers still feared missing. The driver was rescued in critical condition and rushed to a nearby hospital. Rescue operations by SDRF, fire brigade, police, and local authorities are ongoing, facing significant challenges due to the river’s strong currents and rugged terrain. Ropes and pulleys are being used to retrieve the injured and search for the submerged wreckage. Eyewitnesses say landslides and narrow roads contribute frequently to such accidents in the region. Locals highlight that this stretch of the Badrinath highway is particularly prone to accidents, especially during the monsoon. In fact, a similar accident at the same spot last year claimed 12 lives. Calls for better safety infrastructure and traffic diversion measures are being renewed amid rising incidents. Officials have urged drivers to avoid overspeeding and remain cautious during rainy conditions, as frequent landslides and slippery roads increase risks dramatically.
